Humor: Types and Effects
Laughter makes all of us feel better in the moment, but not all things that make some people laugh lessen feelings of loneliness. In fact, some types of humor make loneliness worse. Researchers have recently determined that “”Affiliative Humor” and “Self Enhancing Humor” cause us to feel less lonely, while “Self-Defeating Humor” can increase feelings of loneliness. Citation: Schermer JA, Rogoza R, Branković M, Oviedo-Trespalacios O, Volkodav T, Ha TTK, Kwiatkowska MM, Papazova E, Park J, Kowalski CM, Doroszuk M, Iliško D, Malik S, Lins S, Navarro-Carrillo G, Torres-Marín J, Wlodarczyk A, Aquino SD, Krammer G. Humor Styles Are Related to Loneliness Across 15 Countries. Eur J Psychol. 2022 Nov 30;18(4):422-436. doi: 10.5964/ejop.5407. PMID: 36605086; PMCID: PMC9780735. This was found to be so in a large study of 4,701 subjects from fifteen countries.
What types of things make you laugh?
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Do you like humor about everyday life, like Seinfeld? Do you like humor about animals? This is referred to as “affiliative humor” because it brings people together.
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Do you like humor that puts down individuals, like Don Rickles or the late Joan Rivers? Another example is from a recent Academy Awards Ceremony when Chris Rock called Will Smith’s wife “G.I. Jane” because of her shaved head. (She has a disease called alopecia that causes hair loss.) This is called “aggressive humor.”
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Can you laugh at yourself in a good natured way? Can you find humor when bad things happen to you? One example is Jon Stewart from the Daily Show when says things like: “Well, I’m not that bright.” This is called “self enhancing” or “self-deprecating” humor.
- Do you put yourself down in harsh ways? Do you like comedians like the late Rodney Dangerfield? “I don’t get no respect.” “I was an ugly baby.” This is called “self-defeating humor.”
Results
Those preferring #1 (“affiliative humor”) and/or #3 (“self enhancing humor”) were much less likely to feel lonely than those who preferred humor style #4 (self defeating humor.) Those who preferred #2 did not affect how lonely they felt.
In other words, humor that helps you feel connected to others and better about yourself decreases feelings of loneliness. In contrast, humor that involves degrading yourself or others is not helpful in relieving feelings of loneliness, and in some cases makes it worse.
Suggestion
Can a person change the type of humor they prefer in order to feel less lonely? The study did not look into this, but you might try the following. When you turn on the TV to watch something funny, tune into humorous shows that tend to bring people together and shows in which the characters make fun of themselves, like Seinfeld.
The Transformative Power of Humor: How Humor Lessens Loneliness
While the path to combating loneliness may seem complex, one seemingly simple yet profound tool that has been found to make a significant impact is humor. Humor possesses the remarkable ability to bridge gaps, connect individuals, and offer solace. In this essay, we will explore how humor can positively influence loneliness by fostering connections, enhancing emotional well-being, and providing a fresh perspective on life.
Foster Connections and Sense of Belonging
Humor has a remarkable capacity to foster connections between individuals and diminish feelings of loneliness. Laughter creates a shared experience that brings people together, breaking down barriers and building rapport. Whether it is a witty remark, a funny story, or a shared joke, humor can serve as a universal language that transcends cultural, social, and linguistic boundaries. By engaging in lighthearted banter or participating in humorous activities, individuals can find common ground, forge friendships, and establish a sense of belonging.
Triggers Endorphins the body’s natural feel-good chemicals
Loneliness often takes a toll on an individual’s emotional well-being, leading to feelings of sadness, anxiety, and despair. In such circumstances, humor can act as a powerful emotional tonic, providing temporary relief from the burdens of loneliness. Laughter triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals, leading to an immediate boost in mood and a reduction in stress levels. Sharing a genuine laugh with others can create a sense of joy, temporarily lifting the weight of loneliness and offering a respite from emotional distress.
Can Offer New Perspectives Away from Isolation and Self-Pity
Humor possesses the remarkable ability to reframe one’s perspective on life, offering a fresh outlook on challenging situations and reducing the impact of loneliness. When confronted with the complexities and difficulties of daily life, humor allows individuals to find amusement even in the most mundane or challenging circumstances. It helps to shift focus away from feelings of isolation and self-pity, promoting resilience and adaptive coping strategies. By finding humor in adversity, individuals can reframe their experiences, gaining a new perspective that fosters personal growth and resilience.
Self Enhancing Humor Promotes Self Acceptance, a Powerful Antidote to Loneliness
Humor often relies on self-deprecation, allowing individuals to laugh at their own shortcomings and imperfections. This self-acceptance is a powerful antidote to loneliness. By acknowledging and embracing one’s flaws through humor, individuals can alleviate feelings of isolation and self-consciousness. Humor encourages self-compassion, reminding individuals that they are not alone in their struggles and that imperfections are a natural part of the human experience. Through humor, individuals can develop a sense of self-worth and acceptance, mitigating the negative effects of loneliness.
Be Mindful to Use Affiliative or Self Enhancing /Self deprecating) Humor
Pursuant to the latest research, be mindful of the type of humor you employ. Use “affiliative humor” — humor about everyday life, like Seinfeld. Share observations about animals. Invariably they do something funny. Affiliative humor brings people together and decreases loneliness. Also, remember to employ “self enhancing humor.” Make fun of yourself, but not in a harsh way. Jon Stewart is brilliant; so when he makes a mistake and says: “I’m not that bright” his audience knows that isn’t true. If you are struggling in school or at work; don’t say that. That would be hurtful to you and wouldn’t be funny.
Simple Recipe for Saying Something Guaranteed to Be Funny
You may think that you are simply not funny, but you can learn how from my simple recipe. Something is funny when it is:
(1) related;
(2) unexpected; and
(3) not hurtful to you or others (public figures excepted).
If you pay close attention to funny comedians, you will see that this recipe is the basis for virtually all that makes you laugh.
Conclusion
Humor, with its remarkable ability to foster connections, enhance emotional well-being, promote fresh perspectives, and cultivate self-acceptance. Thus,it serves as a powerful weapon against the pervasive experience of loneliness. It has the potential to bridge gaps, bring people together, and offer solace in times of isolation. By embracing humor and seeking opportunities for laughter, individuals can unlock the transformative power of humor, effectively countering loneliness and finding connection, joy, and belonging in the company of others. Let us embrace the inherent magic of humor and pave the way for a more connected and compassionate world.
Related Blogs: This Blog is part of a Series Introduced with “Scientific Insights and Strategies on Relieving Our Loneliness: Introduction to a Multipart Series”
https://herewithyoucases.com/wp-admin/post.php?post=3017&action=edit.
Keywords: adult; gender; human; humor styles; loneliness.
Madeline J. Robertson, J.D., M.D.
Solutions for Reversing the Loneliness Epidemic — Founder, President & CEO at Here With You, Inc.